Artwork

Portrait of Nikolai D. Kudashev (1784-1813)

Portrait of Nikolai D. Kudashev (1784-1813), by Unknown, oil, 1825
Portrait of Nikolai D. Kudashev (1784-1813), by Unknown, oil, 1825

Portrait of Nikolai D. Kudashev (1784-1813) is an oil painting by the Neoclassicist artist Unknown. It dates from 1825 and is held in the collection of the Hermitage Museum. The work is an oil painting titled Portrait of Nikolai D.

About this work

Overview

The work is an oil painting titled Portrait of Nikolai D. Kudashev (1784‑1813). It presents a single figure in a three‑quarter view, turned toward the right, against a warm brown backdrop. The subject wears a dark military coat adorned with gold trim and a prominent gold brooch on the left side.

Subject & Meaning

The sitter is Nikolai D. Kudashev, a Russian officer born in 1784 who died in 1813. His attire—a high‑collared coat with red and gold detailing—signals his rank and the uniform style of the Imperial Russian army during the Napoleonic era. The portrait emphasizes his status and personal bearing rather than narrative content.

Technique & Style

Executed in oil on canvas, the painting employs a restrained palette of dark hues punctuated by metallic gold accents. The brushwork renders the fabric’s texture and the gleam of the brooch, while the warm brown background provides a subtle contrast that isolates the figure without elaborate setting.

History & Provenance

The portrait was likely created shortly after Kudashev’s death in 1813, possibly as a commemorative piece for his family or regiment. Details of its ownership trail are scarce, but the work has remained within Russian collections, reflecting its regional significance.

Context

Portraits of military officers were common in early‑19th‑century Russia, serving both as personal memorials and as visual affirmations of loyalty to the Tsar. The use of gold ornamentation aligns with contemporary conventions that highlighted rank and imperial affiliation.

Artist & collection

Artist

Unknown

entity whose identity is not known

Hermitage Museum

Museum

Hermitage Museum

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This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: Hermitage Museum open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.